
The Conductor
The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism's Essential Founding Father
$32.80
- Paperback
336 pages
- Release Date
18 December 2024
Summary
Known in his day as the “Father of Abolitionism,” Reverend John Rankin is one of the greatest heroes previously lost to history.
Sitting high above the small community of Ripley, Ohio, a lantern shone in the front window of a small, red brick home at night. It was a signal to slaves in Kentucky—a beacon of liberty in the darkness—just across the Ohio River. Anyone fleeing bondage could look to Reverend John Rankin’s home for hope. To the slaveholders they fled from, Rankin’s activitie…
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781637589892 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 1637589891 |
| Author: | Caleb Franz |
| Publisher: | Permuted Press |
| Imprint: | Post Hill Press |
| Format: | Paperback |
| Number of Pages: | 336 |
| Release Date: | 18 December 2024 |
| Weight: | 406g |
| Dimensions: | 23mm x 152mm x 229mm |

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Critics Review
The moral brilliance of Rev. John Rankin in his quests for racial justice comes to life in Caleb Franz’s finely-written, well-documented biography The Conductor. Every American should know the story of Rev. Rankin, who was the mentor of the renowned abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison and whose bold anti-slavery writings and lectures were brimming with timeless wisdom. Consider that 200 years ago Rev. Rankin wrote, “The love of gain first introduced slavery into the world and has been its constant support in every age…It gives energy to the tyrant’s sword, drenches the earth with blood, and binds whole nations in chains.” – Ann Hagedorn, award-winning author of Beyond the River: The Untold Story of the Heroes of the Underground Railroad
“You’ve heard of the Underground Railroad. Now meet the Conductor. Caleb Franz unearths the story of Reverend John Rankin, who fought against slavery in all its forms, from the early 19th century, when he stood nearly alone, until its destruction. In this discerning book, Rankin finally gets the treatment he deserves.” – Chris DeRose, New York Times bestselling author of The Fighting Bunch and Congressman Lincoln
“Nearly 140 years after his death, Franz has given us a new monument: a biography truly worthy of its subject. As he expertly weaves together original research and historical background, Franz’s scholarship is top-tier, but he also tells his story with incredible pathos. The Conductor is a fitting tribute to an ordinary, conservative man who achieved extraordinary things.” – Tyler Curtis, The Federalist
“Franz’s laudable work shines a light on one person who undertook that perilous cause. An abolitionist’s love of God, country, and his fellow human beings superseded all else, including his [Rankin’s] life.” – Publisher’s Weekly
Caleb Franz
Caleb Franz has built a career as a writer, podcaster, and nonprofit professional. He often provides commentary on public affairs and writes on American history. His work has appeared in outlets such as The Independent, Washington Examiner, RealClearHistory, and more. He currently resides in Lexington, Kentucky, with his wife, Danielle.
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